German shepherd

Intelligent and obedient, suitable for many types of work

The German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized dog breed that first appeared in Germany. Over the years German shepherds became popular for many types of work ranging from acting to military work. German Shepherds are well suited to compete in shows, trials etc.

iconCountry of origin:

Germany

iconFCI group:

Group 1 herding dogs, Section 1 sheepdogs #166 #166a (long-haired) #166b (short-haired)

iconTemperament:

Obedient, Intelligent, Alert, Curious, Loyal, Confident, Watchful, Courageous

iconColors:

Black, Black & Tan, Sable, Red & Black, Grey, Black & Silver

iconWeight:

Male: 30–40 kg, Female: 22–32 kg

iconHeight:

Male: 60–65 cm, Female: 55–60 cm

iconLife expectancy:

from 9 to 13 years

German shepherd’s puppies

The German Shepherd dogs are pack animals. They need a stern leader that will provide guidance. German Shepherd is a social animal, training him in order to socialize with other people and animals is vital. Give commands only once and be consistent in your actions.  Reward good behaviours and be patient with your dog. Provide your dog with the required mental and physical stimulation to ensure healthy development. German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to canine hip dysplasia - an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint. CHD may cause pain, inflammation and even osteoarthritis of the joint. There is a good chance of preventing the condition by limiting the amount of jumping and rough play and keeping puppies on a healthy diet. It is best to choose dry food containing glucosamine and chondroitin for this breed - Valp Maxi will be a great choice.

German shepherd’s nutrition

Since German Shepherds are predisposed to a variety of skeletal disorders, a well-balanced diet is essential to ensure proper growth and health of the animal. German Shepherds should be fed with a diet designed for large breeds (e.g. Optimal Giant in Husse range), but it is important to monitor energy levels on all stages of growth. Calcium and phosphorus levels have to be properly balanced since they greatly influence the skeletal system. The supplementation of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can aid in decreasing the symptoms of osteoarthritis in German Shepherds. Supplements containing chondroitin and glucosamine can be beneficial in support of this breed’s skeletal conditions (Artro Plus from our range).

Recommended for German Shepherd puppies:

Valp Maxi | Balanced nutrition for puppies & mother dogs of large breeds

Valp Maxi contains glucosamine to support healthy growth of the puppy’s joints and bones, with larger kibble size adapted for the jaws of large and giant breed puppies.
flora_stimuli
mobility
Breed size: Large breeds
Protein: 29.0% (81% animal protein of total protein content)
Fat content: 18.0%
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Recommended for German Shepherd adults:

Optimal Giant | Balanced dry food for dogs of large breeds

Optimal Giant is suitable for adult large or giant breeds with normal energy requirements. Contains glucosamine to support healthy joints and bones. Kibble size is adapted for the jaws of large and giant breeds to support mechanical cleaning of the teeth.
mobility
taurine
Breed size: Large breeds
Protein: 23.5% (71% animal protein of total protein content)
Fat content: 13.0%
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Sensitive Digest Giant | Hypoallergenic dry food for large breed dogs with digestive sensitivities

Digest Giant is a gluten free product with limited sources of animal protein, suitable for dogs that suffer from allergies and/or sensitive digestive systems. Contains glucosamine to support joint health and has an adapted kibble size for the jaws of large and giant breeds.
hypo_allergenic
mobility
Breed size: Large breeds
Protein: 24.0% (73.5% animal protein of total protein content)
Fat content: 14.0%
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Detailed description of German Shepherd

German Shepherd is classified as a medium to a large-size dog. For this particular breed, the standard height at the withers is roughly 60cm. German Shepherds are strong and muscular and typically longer than they are tall. These strong and intelligent dogs can be seen working as disability assistance or take up police or military roles.

Genesis

In the early 19th century German Shepherd was developed as a herding dog for herding sheep across Germany. It is believed that a few different European types of herding dogs were used to create the modern German Shepherd in 1899. Used commonly by German soldiers, they gained popularity across Europe. After World War I ended the breed gained international recognition.

Appearance

This breed has a long muzzle, black nose and strong jaws. Ears are large, pointed and standing straight up. German Shepherd has a long neck and a bushy long tail. The fur is dense with a thick undercoat. Fur can be kept medium or long, both variants are acceptable. Usually, black and tan or black and red combinations of fur colours are seen.  In most colour variations a black mask is present.

Behaviour

German Shepherd is a breed characterised primarily by its intelligence. This breed is willing to learn and has a strong need to have a purpose. German Shepherd is curious but at the same time cautious of strangers, which makes it perfect for guarding purposes. Loyal and social, can become overprotective of their territory and family, if not socialised correctly as pups. Thanks to its obedience German Shepherd is well suited for skill-learning and many types of training, which makes it an excellent working dog.

Requirements

As a breed developed as a working animal, German Shepherds require a lot of physical stimulation. Since German Shepherds are predisposed to a variety of skeletal disorders, excessive amounts of jumping should be avoided. Proper nutrition is a key component in keeping dogs of this breed in good health.

Daily care

German Shepherd’s dense fur requires brushing at least twice a week or every day during heavy shedding season in spring and autumn. It will help reduce shedding and potential matting of the fur. In warmer months check regularly for fleas and ticks. Just like most dogs, German Shepherd does not need to be bathed more than a few times in a year. Since this breed has a particularly thick coat, drying may take several hours. Remember to never brush your dog’s fur when wet.

dr Anna Plummervet and blogger

Grain and Gluten free - Recommended for German Shepherd

Opus Ocean, 2kg - Husse Natural Complete Adult Dry Dog Food Salmon Grain-Free Hypoallergenic

Rich in animal protein & fat to fuel your dog's active lifestyle

£18.00

Opus Farm, 12kg - Husse Natural Complete Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken & Potatoe Grain-Free Hypoallergenic

Rich in animal protein & fat to fuel your dog's active lifestyle

£67.95

Valp Farm, 12kg - Husse Natural Complete Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken & Potatoe Grain-Free Hypoallergenic

With psyllium, fructo-oligosaccharides & vegetable fibres for smooth digestion

£69.95

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Frankie

Frankie is a 16-year-old cat who was earlier this year diagnosed with Kidney issues. When tasked with looking for suitable food for his condition we discovered Husse's Exclusive Urinary. Frankie has happily been eating Husse since and is still extremely healthy at his old age!

Olly

Olly is a thirteen-year-old Bichon Frise, Who has been on Husse for the last 6 years. Being a white-haired pink-skinned dog he is prone to skin issues however ever since using Husse laxolja salmon oil and Ocean care mini salmon dog food he has been In perfect condition with no skin problems arising. Thank you Husse for taking care of my boy!

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Husse is a Swedish producer of food for dogs, cats and horses with over 30 years of experience on the market. Husse's main goal is to promote a healthy lifestyle for animals. All Husse feeds, treats and supplements are made only from the highest quality, carefully selected ingredients. All products are manufactured according to traditional Scandinavian recipes, and the production lines are under constant veterinary control. Apart from the quality of Husse products, it also means the quality of the service. Husse distributors are thoroughly trained in animal nutrition and will be happy to help you choose the right diet for your dog, cat or horse. Husse products are not available in a traditional sales network - we deliver them straight from the factory to the customer, so we can offer the highest quality products at competitive prices. Husse food can always be ordered with door-to-door delivery. 

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